Pin A festive, creamy pasta featuring a light tomato-vodka sauce, adorned with fresh spinach and roasted red peppers for a cheerful holiday presentation.
This pasta has become a holiday staple in my family, reminding us of cozy gatherings and joyful celebrations.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) whole wheat penne or rigatoni
- Sauce: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 cup (120 ml) vodka, 1 can (14 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-fat or plant-based cream, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Festive Red & Green: 1 cup (150 g) jarred roasted red peppers drained and cut into strips, 3 cups (90 g) baby spinach leaves
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped, Extra grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) pasta water, then drain pasta.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft about 3 4 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes cook 1 minute more.
- Step 3:
- Pour in vodka and simmer for 2 3 minutes letting it reduce by half.
- Step 4:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes. Simmer gently for 8 10 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Step 5:
- Lower heat and mix in the cream and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 6:
- Add roasted red peppers and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts 2 3 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Toss cooked pasta into the sauce adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Step 8:
- Serve sprinkled with basil and extra Parmesan.
Pin My family loves coming together around this pasta dish every Christmas it always brings smiles and laughter.
Notes
Pairs well with a light Italian red wine like Chianti for a perfect holiday meal pairing.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) milk (dairy Parmesan cream). For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free vegan use plant-based cream and cheese. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Pin This lightened-up Christmas pasta is sure to delight your guests and become a holiday favorite for years to come.
Recipe Q&A
- → What pasta types work best in this dish?
Whole wheat penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well, providing a hearty texture that complements the creamy vodka rosé sauce.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based cream and a vegan Parmesan alternative to keep the dish creamy without dairy.
- → How do the roasted red peppers affect the flavor?
They add a sweet, smoky note that brightens the richness of the sauce and enhances the festive color palette.
- → Is vodka necessary for the sauce?
Vodka helps release flavors from the tomatoes and adds subtle depth, but you may omit it if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Try incorporating sautéed mushrooms or peas for added texture and nutritional variety.